How to choose the best deodorant

In addition to natural sunscreen, it is just as important for athletes to choose the best deodorant.

Let’s be honest, there is nothing worse than a stinky athlete! It’s one thing to be sweaty, which is natural by the way, but to reek – that can get a little offensive!

Deodorant versus Antiperspirant

Many of us use the terms deodorant and antiperspirant interchangeably. I know I did before doing my research. But there is a distinct difference between the two products which is critical to understanding which one to use.

A deodorant does not affect perspiration but serves to mask or block odour. It contains antibacterial ingredients that help reduce odour-causing bacteria, and may also contain perfumes or oils to mask the smell.

An antiperspirant is very different to a deodorant where its main aim is to stop us from actually sweating, hence the name. Antiperspirant products usually don’t completely prevent sweating, so often also contain deodorising ingredients to reduce the smell.

The key differences between a deodorant and an antiperspirant

1. Aluminium content

In order to prevent sweating, antiperspirants contain aluminium salts that can come in various compounds. These ingredients work by temporarily blocking and shrinking pores. Generally, the higher the aluminium content, the greater the effectiveness of the antiperspirant to reduce sweat.

Even though there have been some research studies linking the use of antiperspirants to increased risks of serious illnesses such as Alzheimer’s disease 23 and some cancers such as breast cancer, 45 there has not been enough conclusive evidence (such as levels of absorption of aluminium through the skin) to warrant a ban from major health organisations.

2. Pore blockage

In addition, even though the prevention of sweating under the armpits itself is not a big problem (we have many other pores in the body from which to sweat from), the clogging of pores from using antiperspirants can lead to other skin irritability and inflammation issues.

Normal Deodorant versus Natural Deodorant

Despite no definitive link from antiperspirants, I would prefer to limit any absorption of aluminium (as a proven toxin) in order to reduce the risks of associated cancers when choosing products for my family. So let’s take a look at the alternative to antiperspirants, the aluminium-free deodorant.

But are all deodorants equal?

Once again, many deodorants can also contain harmful ingredients. These can include:

Triclosan – a commonly used antibacterial agent and preservative. There is evidence that it can disrupt the endocrine system, especially reproductive hormones. 6

Parabens – used as preservatives in underarm deodorants and antiperspirants. The presence of parabens has been found to contribute to the rising incidence of breast cancer. 78 These may be listed in the ingredients as methylparaben, propylparaben, ethylparaben, or butylparaben, Isopropylparaben, Isobutylparaben or benzylparaben.

Phthalates – are a family of organic chemicals produced from oil. They come in various chemical structures and therefore can have different uses and toxicity levels. However, exposure to some phthalates is considered to be potentially harmful to human health, 9 including damaging the male reproductive system. 10

How to choose the best deodorant

So pull out your current deodorant and follow the list to:
1. Check there is no aluminium content.
2. Check there is no evidence of triclosan.
3. Check there are no parabens.
4. Check there are no phthalates.

If you found any of these ingredients, consider switching to a natural alternative.

A Natural Deodorant is the Best Deodorant

There are many natural deodorants on the market. You can find many different brands available at Nourished Life*.

*Active + Nourished is a Nourished Life affiliate which means that if you choose to purchase through this link we will receive a small commission from the sale at no extra cost to you. This will assist in the development and maintenance of the Active + Nourished website.